How to Fix Epson ET-8550 Error Code 031006: Causes and Solutions

Question:

Good morning. I have an Epson ET-8550 and was cleaning the printhead when I encountered the 031006 error code. Do you need the mainboard or the entire printer to check it out? I can send either one.

Answer:

Thank you for contacting us, and we apologize for not getting back to you sooner. We understand that printer issues are urgent and want to ensure we address your concerns carefully and thoroughly. At BCH Technologies, we appreciate your engagement and support, especially with our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve our technical expertise and provide better solutions.

Understanding Epson Error Code 031006

The 031006 error code on an Epson ET-8550 usually indicates a problem related to one or more of the following components:

1. Printhead – A clogged or damaged printhead can trigger this error.
2. FFC (Flat Flexible Cable) – A loose or damaged cable connecting the printhead to the mainboard may be at fault.
3. Mainboard – If there is an issue with the mainboard, it can also cause this error.

Since you encountered the issue while cleaning the printhead, the printhead or its connecting components (such as the FFC cable) were likely affected.

Troubleshooting Steps

To determine the exact cause of the error, follow these steps:

1. Power Cycle the Printer

   • Please turn off the printer entirely and unplug it from the power source.
   • Wait about 5–10 minutes to let the capacitors discharge.
   • Plug it back in and turn it on to see if the error persists.

2. Check the Printhead and FFC Cable

   • Open the printer and inspect the printhead area.
   • Look for any loose or disconnected cables.
   • If you recently removed or reseated the printhead, ensure the FFC cable is fully inserted and not crimped or damaged.

3. Inspect the Printhead for Clogs

   • If you manually cleaned, ink residue could have blocked an ink channel or affected an electrical contact.
   • Try running a nozzle check and head cleaning cycle through the printer menu.
   • If necessary, manually flush the printhead using a proper printhead cleaning solution.

4. Reseat the Mainboard Connections

   • If the error persists, the mainboard may not be receiving proper signals.
   • Check all ribbon cables and connections to the mainboard for any visible damage.

Repair and Replacement Options

If you have followed the troubleshooting steps and still encounter the 031006 error, your next step is determining whether the mainboard, printhead, or another component needs replacing.

We offer both mainboard and complete printer repair services, and you can find more details on our printer repair service page (https://bchtechnologies.com/collections/printer-repair-service). Over the past 13 years, we’ve refined this page to address all common questions, including pricing, service details, shipping options, and who covers shipping costs.

Should You Send Just the Mainboard or the Whole Printer?

If you send the mainboard alone, we can diagnose it, but sending the entire printer is often more effective. Multiple factors, including interactions between the printhead, cables, and mainboard, could cause TError031006. Sending the full printer allows us to perform a comprehensive diagnostic and ensure all related components are working correctly.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we cannot provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Getting your printer to drop off may take a few weeks. Our services are structured to repair a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel’s homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube’s search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

We truly appreciate your patience and your trust in BCH Technologies. Thank you again for your support, and we hope this helps you get your Epson ET-8550 back up and running!